“India Will Never Bow to Pressure”: Putin Applauds PM Modi Amid US Tariffs

Russian President Hails Modi as a “Wise, Nationally Oriented Leader” and Criticizes US Sanctions Over Russian Oil Trade

Key Highlights:

• Putin praises PM Modi for strong leadership and sovereign decision-making
• Criticizes US for imposing 25% additional tariffs on India
• Emphasizes Russia-India’s historic and strategic partnership
• Offers to increase imports of Indian agricultural and pharmaceutical products

Putin Calls PM Modi a Trusted Friend and Balanced Leader

During the Valdai Discussion Club plenary session in Sochi, Russian President Vladimir Putin delivered strong praise for Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, referring to him as a “balanced, wise, and nationally oriented” leader.

Putin emphasized that their relationship is built on mutual respect and trust, calling PM Modi a friend and stating, “I feel comfortable in our trustworthy interactions.”

India Won’t Be Humiliated or Pressured by Anyone: Putin

Addressing US pressure on India to halt its Russian crude oil imports, Putin strongly defended India’s stance, saying:

“India will never allow itself to be humiliated in front of anyone. Prime Minister Modi would never take such steps.”

He highlighted that India’s purchase of Russian oil is based on pure economic logic, not politics.

• Potential economic loss from stopping Russian crude: $9–10 billion
• US-imposed tariffs on Indian exports raised by 25%, totaling 50%
• India maintains oil imports despite risk of sanctions to protect domestic interests and economic stability

Putin’s Criticism of US Trade Tactics

Putin also responded to recent remarks by US President Donald Trump at the United Nations, where India and China were accused of funding the Ukraine conflict via oil trade.

He warned that increasing tariffs on trading partners could:

• Inflate global prices
• Force US interest rates to remain high
• Destabilize global economic balance

Russia-India Relations: A Special Strategic Partnership

Putin underlined the long-standing bond between Russia and India, dating back to the Soviet era, saying:

“India remembers our support during its independence movement and values our friendship.”

He confirmed that the two nations:

• Coordinate closely on international issues
• Face no interstate tensions
• Are about to celebrate 15 years of a ‘Special Strategic Privileged Partnership’

Trade Imbalance & Future Cooperation

Putin acknowledged the trade imbalance between the two countries and expressed intent to diversify Russian imports from India, especially in:

• Agricultural products
• Medicines and pharmaceuticals

He pointed out logistical and financial challenges that need to be resolved to unlock full trade potential.

Conclusion: A Message of Mutual Respect and Strategic Independence

Putin’s statements reflect Russia’s respect for India’s sovereign decision-making and highlight the depth of the Russia-India partnership, especially in light of external pressures from the West.

With ongoing economic cooperation, shared diplomatic goals, and historical ties, the relationship between New Delhi and Moscow remains resilient and forward-looking.